Age: 2 yr
Size: 18-24"
Height at maturity: Typically reaches 20–50 feet (6–15 meters) as a small to medium tree, occasionally up to 70 feet (21 meters) in optimal conditions. Often grows smaller in harsh environments or as a stunted shrub in boggy areas.
Diameter: The trunk of a mature tree can reach 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) in diameter. The canopy spread is typically 10–20 feet (3–6 meters) wide, depending on growing conditions.
Crown shape: Develops a narrow, conical to spire-like crown with short, stiff needles and dense, drooping branches. Young trees are compact and symmetrical, while mature trees maintain a slender, tapered form, often with a spiky top.
Benefits: Produces small, persistent cones that provide food for wildlife, including birds (e.g., crossbills, chickadees) and small mammals like squirrels. Offers year-round evergreen beauty, suitable for windbreaks, reforestation, or ornamental use in cold climates. Its wood is used for pulp, paper, and construction. Provides habitat and cover for wildlife in wetland and boreal ecosystems. Highly tolerant of cold, wet, and nutrient-poor conditions, but may be susceptible to pests like spruce budworm or diseases like needle rust. Low maintenance and well-suited for challenging environments like bogs or rocky soils.
Best soil type: Prefers moist to wet, acidic soils (pH 4.0–5.5), often found in peat bogs or poorly drained areas. Thrives in organic-rich, mucky soils but adapts to sandy or loamy soils with adequate moisture. Tolerates poor drainage and low fertility. Performs best in full sun to partial shade.